A New Year Coming…
I remember as a child my father used to say that time goes by faster as you grow older. How true I find his words now. In April, I launched Same Difference, and each month that has passed has felt more like a week. But I am not complaining. My time has been filled with blessings —book readings at schools and day cares, teaching art classes and being a mother to an amazing family.
Now as 2011 approaches, I find myself (as I do at the end of each year) reflecting on my achievements, setting new goals and most important thinking about all that I am grateful for. When I released Same Difference, I was hopeful that children would understand its greater message of the importance of loving yourself. But I never imagined that I’d receive such an overwhelming response—all the beautiful letters and e-mails—from the book’s fans. At times, they’ve brought me to tears. I thank all of you so much for your support and kind messages and for spreading the word about Same Difference.
But I have to give credit where credit is due. Same Difference could not have been possible without a few special people in my life. First, I must thank my wonderful husband, Gerald, who has always supported me in any endeavor I wanted to pursue. He has been my loudest cheerleader and my best friend. My cousin Chana, who is not only an inspiration for the book, but who also edited the manuscript and promoted it on her blog (cancerslayergyrl.com). We’ve always been more like twin sisters, and we can’t let two days go by without speaking to each other. My mother, who bought a lot of books and gave them out to people. I love you! You gave me my strong moral compass, and quite simply you are the best! Regina R. Robertson, who reviewed Same Difference on Essence.com. Her beautiful words were more than I could have ever hoped for. Ms. Betty and her entire staff, thank you for taking care of my babies. I could not have worked so hard without the peace of mind that they were being well cared for. I know there are so many more people I should be thanking, but please know that you are appreciated.
In 2011, I hope I can take Same Difference to the next level, spend as much time as I can with my friends and family, and keep a positive mind and spirit. I don’t know each of your personal goals, but I wish you only the best, and I hope you continue to go after your dreams. It took me a long time to learn to be patient with myself, and actually I am still working on it. But I love this quote from Confucius: “It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop.” Good luck. And if you ever need someone to tell you that you can do it, my e-mail is samedifferencebook@gmail.com. I am here.
Happy Holidays
Calida
crazymomwithkids 